Written by Nigel Dawbarn, Business Development Manager- Control System Solutions

I would always ask the following questions:

• How important is your system availability?
• Is it a mission critical process you need to control?
• What are the consequences if your system fails?

At Phoenix Contact, we have a solution for you using AutoSync Technology.

Designed by Phoenix Contact, two RFC 460R controllers automatically configure and synchronise all the redundancy functions. You program just one controller as usual, while the second is started up automatically. If one PLC fails, the other takes over immediately ensuring smooth operation.

Simply connect two RFC 460R controllers via a fibre optic synchronisation cable and you’re done!

Uninterrupted processes are vital in complex systems and large plants. Ensure the continuous operation of your automation with the new PROFINET redundancy controllers from Phoenix Contact. Below are some advantages of these controllers:

• AutoSync technology: Easy startup and automatic configuration of all redundancy functions
• A distance of up to 80 km between the controllers via fibre optics, cost-optimised thanks to plug-in SFP modules
• Uninterrupted process, even in the event of failure or when a controller is replaced
• High-resolution display: for displaying status and error messages in plain text
• Optimum device integration: PROFINET standard-  redundancy for your future-proof Ethernet network
• Uninterrupted visualisation because of redundancy-capable OPC servers

Redundancy – for failsafe control systems

With the new RFC 460R PN 3TX controller, maximum availability can be provided throughout your system – from the I/O level to the control level. Simply connect two RFC controllers via a fibre optic cable.  Depending on the distance between the PLCs, choose from three plug-in SFP (small form factor plug-in) modules to connect the conductors. You can therefore cover distances of up to 80 km, e.g., for applications in tunnels or at airports.

Using AutoSync technology,  the controllers automatically establish a high-performance connection for exchanging configuration data and project information. Before each cycle, the PLC controlling the process transmits the data that is to be synchronised to the PLC that is in hot standby mode.

Information Links

More information about PROFINET
More information about Phoenix Contact’s controllers

I welcome enquiries about this and would be happy to discuss your application requirements.

Please contact me: ndawbarn@phoenixcontact.com